Saturnushuset in Malmö Transforms into New Cultural Hub under Kulturföreningen PLX

Malmö’s iconic Saturnushuset is set to undergo a major transformation as the former industrial building has been sold by the housing company MKB to Kulturföreningen PLX, a non-profit cultural association. The building, located at the intersection of Ystadgatan and Lantmannagatan in the Sofielund district, has stood vacant since the early 2000s after ceasing manufacturing activities under Saturnus AB, which had operated there since 1937.

Originally acquired by MKB in 2014 with plans for housing development, the property’s future shifted following Malmö city’s 2021 decision to establish Sweden's first cultural sound zone nearby in the Kampen area. This initiative aims to foster a vibrant cultural environment by integrating art, music, business, and urban life.

In light of this, MKB entered discussions with the city and external parties, culminating in the sale of Saturnushuset and an adjacent small land parcel to Kulturföreningen PLX. PLX, founded in 2006 and operating as a non-profit since 2014, plans to develop the site into “Kulturhus Saturnus,” a dynamic meeting place offering public cultural experiences encompassing art, music, food, and creative activities. Marie Thelander Dellhag, CEO of MKB, expressed enthusiasm about the project, highlighting its alignment with Malmö’s vision for a lively cultural sound zone in Sofielund. Similarly, Filip Karlsson from PLX shared excitement about creating a lasting cultural contribution to the area and the city.

The transaction is structured as a corporate sale, with MKB retaining the majority of the property, much of which is currently used as parking. This cultural transformation marks a significant chapter in the area’s urban renewal and Malmö’s broader efforts to enhance cultural infrastructure and community engagement through innovative use of historic buildings.